The Osun State Police Command has arrested six suspected cultists during intelligence-led raids on identified criminal hideouts in Osogbo, the state capital, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle cult-related violence and other criminal activities in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, explaining that the operation targeted identified black spots and criminal hideouts across Osogbo.
According to the police, preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were allegedly members of the Eiye Confraternity and were suspected of belonging to a criminal gang accused of terrorising residents and members of the public around the Mackay Junction area of Osogbo.
The six suspects were identified as Ajibade Lateef, 21; Olaniyi Kabiru, 27; Ifaleke Ifedeji, 18; Tajudeen Wasiu, 35; Abideen Babatunde, 35; and Opeyemi Lukman, 18.
Ojelabi said the arrests followed targeted operations conducted in line with directives issued by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan Zungura.
He added that police operatives recovered suspected criminal charms, illicit drugs and cash believed to be proceeds of drug-related activities during the raids.
The command described the arrests as an operational breakthrough and maintained that the operations were part of a broader effort to identify and apprehend individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activities across Osogbo and other parts of Osun State.
The Commissioner of Police also called on parents, guardians, community leaders, landlords and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and assist security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and criminal activities.
Residents were encouraged to report relevant information to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.
The police commissioner further warned young people against cultism, illicit drug use and association with criminal groups, stressing that involvement in criminal activities could have serious consequences.
The statement added that raids would continue across identified criminal hideouts and black spots until suspected criminal elements were apprehended and lasting peace and security were sustained in Osogbo and other parts of the state.
The command also appealed to members of the public to cooperate with security agencies in the fight against crime, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property.
The latest arrests come amid renewed concerns over cult-related violence in Osogbo.
PUNCH Metro had earlier reported that the police confirmed the deaths of two people following clashes involving suspected members of rival cult groups in the state capital.
The incident reportedly occurred at a lounge in Owoeba, along the Osogbo-Ilesa Road, where the victims were attacked by unidentified assailants.
The latest police operation comes against the backdrop of these reported incidents, with the command continuing efforts to tackle suspected cult activities and improve public safety in the state capital.
The suspects’ alleged affiliations and involvement in criminal activities remain allegations pending the outcome of investigations and any court proceedings.
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